Help Ukrainian Yiddish Students

Ukraine has been suffering economically and spiritually as a result of the continued occupation of its territory and the war against its sovereignty. Whatever people might say about "Ukraine fatigue," no one doubts the vigor and dedication of its youth and burgeoning civil society. Part of Ukraine's struggle is for its identity and history. Ukraine's Kyiv-Mohyla University has produced a fine cohort of Yiddish graduate students, dedicated to improving their country by improving its understanding of Yiddish - a language native to Ukraine and critical to its culture and history. Five of these students have an opportunity to study Yiddish at the renowned Vilnius Yiddish Institute, but the financial straits of Ukrainian student life and the lack of adequate scholarship funds means that they do not have the resources to travel, spend time away from home, or to enjoy an experience common to many students around the world. While funds have been short and tragedy has overflowed in this country, these students have fed themselves on a love for Yiddish, the Ukrainian-Jewish past, and a passionate concern with the issues of the present day. Please find it in your heart to give them a much needed respite of study, song, and travel at The Vilnius Yiddish Institute's Summer Program: http://judaicvilnius.com/index.php/programs/summer-program. I have posted a photo of a previous class and hope that these amazing students will be able, with your generous support, to join the 2016 program. We will be posting videos soon, but time is short as the program begins in mid-July. All of the money we collect will be dispersed among five-six worthy students to sponsor their living expenses during the program.  We will post updates and photos from the course. As a Fulbright student in Ukraine, I have had the privilege of working with these fine students, I appreciate your efforts in helping to return the favor by sponsoring their much-needed trip abroad in furtherance of their studies. Please donate what you can and please also share this plea with your friends via social media. Thank you!!!